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can cause damage and discoloration. These are not recommended for use.
Dry cleaning fluids and lacquer solvents should not be used as they will
remove the printed pattern and gloss. Waxes are not recommended
because many contain dyes and solvents that can permanently damage the
protective coating. In some instances, consumers have reported the
appearance of a pink stain on vinyl that is resistant to various cleaning
methods. Our lab tests indicate that the pink stain has been present in the
past, but it becomes more visible to the naked eye whenever the whitest-
white vinyl is used. This is true regardless of manufacturer or vendor.
Avalon & Tahoe has chosen a white that reduces the appearance of the pink
stain but retains as much of the lightest white we can use. Although there
can be other causes for pink staining on vinyl, most pink stains are caused
by dyes produced by micro-organisms. These dyes are metabolic products
of the micro-organisms, otherwise known as a form of fungi. It is virtually
impossible for consumers to avoid these micro-organisms as they exist in
the atmosphere. It is also more prevalent in high-humidity areas. Rain can
cleanse the air with the result that the micro-organisms are deposited on
items such as marine vinyl. While the vinyl is treated to resist the growth of
micro-organisms meaning the vinyl is not a food source, the stain results
from failure to properly clean and maintain the vinyl. This means that after
use, the upholstery must be cleaned with a soft brush and warm soapy
water, followed by a thorough rinse with clean water. If this procedure is
not followed, the micro-organisms can find the marine vinyl to be a suitable
host site. This situation is worsened if the boat is stored without proper
ventilation or if the boat cover is put on while the vinyl is still wet, creating a
situation in which all forms of fungi (mold and mildew) thrive. The organism
causing the pink stain has been identified by the Burlington Scientific
Corporation as Streptoverticillium reticulum, although there are other
strains of organisms that can cause stains. Failure to follow these
instructions regarding the proper care of upholstery can cause your
warranty to be voided. We cannot guarantee that the cleaning methods
will work. Stains from any external source are unlikely to be covered by
warranty.
Mild soap and water will keep your seats clean and pliable. Wet vinyl will
promote mildewing. Keep vinyl dry and clean. Remove seats and wipe dry
after use to insure that there is no moisture between the seat cushions.
NOTE: Mildew is not a warranted item.
Do not use solvents, bleach, Armor All, 409 or any other harsh cleaner on
vinyl. They can cause permanent damage. Use cleaners made especially for
vinyl.
The ultra-violet rays of the sun and ozone in the atmosphere (particularly in
windborne spray) can cause cracking and "aging" of upholstery. While some
vinyl seats have been chemically-treated to retard these problems, the best
countermeasures are keeping the boat covered and shaded when not in
use. NOTE: Uncovered and neglected upholstery will not be warranted.
